Orange barrels to move over for Independence Day Weekend travel in Michigan

LANSING, Mich. - Orange barrels will be moving over to make travel easier for July 4th road-trippers!

Starting Friday afternoon, construction will be paused on nearly 60 percent of road and bridge projects statewide to ease traffic delays for holiday travelers.

AAA Michigan estimates more than 1.7 million Michigan residents are expected to travel 50 miles or more from home during the Fourth of July holiday weekend, a new record.

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“Fourth of July weekend is a time to come together with family and friends to enjoy the splendor of Pure Michigan and celebrate our independence,” said Governor Whitmer. “To ensure Michiganders can get to their destinations safely and on time, we’re moving construction barrels and lifting traffic restrictions. As you hit the road, remember to not text and drive and keep your eyes on the road—our new hands-free driving laws goes into effect on Friday. Next, Wednesday, the hardworking men and women who build our infrastructure will be back in action fixing the damn roads and bridges. Since I took office, we have invested 70% more in our roads than the previous administration to fix nearly 20,000 lane miles of road and 1,400 bridges, supporting over 118,000 jobs. I’m proud of what we have accomplished, and I hope you all have a safe holiday weekend. ”

Beginning at 3:00PM on Friday, June 30, and continuing until 6:00AM on Wednesday, July 5, drivers will see open roads on 99 out of 175 projects statewide.

While motorists will see suspended operations in most MDOT work zones for the weekend, drivers are advised that equipment and certain traffic configurations may remain in place, like temporary shifts or shoulder closures.